Two major concerns many patients have about receiving chemotherapy are nausea and vomiting. Nausea and vomiting result from the drugs irritating areas of the brain that control nausea or the cells lining the digestive tract (mouth, throat, stomach, intestine). Medications can help prevent or control nausea; if the drug or drugs you are taking can cause nausea or vomiting, you will receive anti-nausea medication (e.g., before every treatment) to minimize the amount you experience. You will also be given a prescription of an anti-nausea medication to take home with you. Your nurse will review with you how to use it most effectively.
Persistent nausea can prevent many patients from eating. Not eating and drinking will deprive your body of the nutrients (energy) it needs to repair itself from the effects of chemotherapy. Below you will find some helpful hints to help you minimize the amount of nausea you experience. You may also ask your nurse for the National Cancer Institute's booklet Eating Well During and After Cancer Treatment.
Self-Care Measures:
- Take anti-nausea medication as directed by your physician or nurse.
- Eat crackers or hard candy to help prevent dry heaves.
- Eat small frequent meals; stop eating when you are full.
- Drink liquids (eight to ten 8-ounce glasses a day) frequently to avoid dehydration from vomiting.
- Maintain good oral hygiene (e.g., rinse mouth thoroughly after vomiting).
- Practice relaxation methods such as listening to soft music, deep breathing techniques, yoga, meditation, or other methods of distraction.
- Ask your doctor or nurse to schedule an appointment for you with a dietitian/nutritionist.
Things to Avoid:
- Fried, greasy, creamy, rich, or spicy foods
- Foods that give off an odor (Sometimes the odours from cooking hot meals may stimulate nausea.)
Contact your physician or nurse if:
- Vomiting persists over a 24-hour period.
- Nausea persists, even after proper use of anti-nausea medication.
